« "Shrek" is a good family choice of the weekend »

Rating:  3 out of Fordyce

Shrek: The Musical is on stage through Sunday at Wharton Center. The story of the ogre who finds his princess is a lot of fun. There is music and dance aplenty, great costumes, fantastic sets, and lots of on-stage magic.

For those of you who were listening to “MI Afternoon” on MIentertainment Radio you know I did like this show but was a little disappointed with a few things. Number one was the length. We arrived at 7:20 for a 7:30 curtain and got back in the car at 9:55. On the trip back to the car we saw several parents carrying children who had fallen asleep. My suggestion is that if you are bringing the young ones, try a matinee. For those who can stay up late, try to get a seat in the center. We were off to the right and there was a little trouble seeing scenes on the other side of the stage.

The cast in East Lansing includes Eric Peterson as Shrek. After hours in make-up to “go green,” he delivers, as does Haven Burton as Princess Fiona. Alan Mingo, Jr. was Donkey; I thought he was trying too hard to be Eddie Murphy. Hats off to the crew who makes the dragon work, and special thanks to Balakely Slaybaugh, who was adorable as Pinocchio. He dropped by “MI Afternoon” for and interview and you can click below and give it a listen

The Shrek plot is cute, although predictable, and the songs are fun, although — except for the finale — none are very memorable. All in all this one gets a good 3 out of Fordyce and is a great way to spend a fun afternoon or evening with your entire family.

Be sure to stay for the spectacular finale. I saw some people leave before the curtain call, and in addition to being incredibly rude, they missed the best part of the show.

Balakely Slaybaugh interview